Some have strong opinions about antidepressants and whether they should be taken, concerned about side effects, psychological dependence or addiction. Still, many people find that antidepressants can help them through different phases of depression and help them cope better.
Deciding to use an antidepressant as a treatment option is a personal decision involving a collaborative effort with your doctor. Doing your research, learning more about antidepressants, and talking with your doctor can help you make the right choice for you.
Antidepressants are drugs used to treat depression. They have effects on neurotransmitters, reduce the biological impact of stress on the brain, reduce neuroinflammation – inflammation of the brain or spinal cord, and increase the brain’s ability to cope with future stress.
They don’t work immediately; it may take a few weeks before you feel the effects. There are different types of antidepressants and you may need to try several before you find the right one for you.
Common classes of antidepressants used to help treat depression include:
There are also atypical antidepressants, as well as natural supplements that can help enhance the therapeutic effects of antidepressants.
There are many benefits to taking antidepressants. Being aware of these benefits can help you make an informed decision.
They are effective in relieving symptoms
Antidepressants have proven to be more
They are well-researched and generally safe
Antidepressants have all been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that they have undergone rigorous testing and clinical trials.
They can help you succeed with other parts of your treatment plan
Your treatment plan can involve a variety of things, including things like performing basic self-care tasks. If your depression is making you listless and lethargic, antidepressants can help restore your energy so you can do daily activities, participate in therapy, and other parts of your treatment plan.
Improved quality of life
In addition to mood benefits, people on antidepressants report
As with any medication, there can be downsides to taking antidepressants. These may be different for each person, but being aware of them can help you prepare. Talking to your doctor about any of the downsides can help you re-evaluate your medication. In this discussion, the disadvantages must be weighed against the advantages.
You may need to try several to find the right one for you
Not all antidepressants will work for all people. You may need to switch more than once to find the best medicine for you and your symptoms.
They can affect your libido
Antidepressants can reduce your libido or sexual functioning. Some antidepressants are more likely than others to have sexual side effects.
They can affect your sleep and/or your weight
Although sleep disturbances are a common complaint of people with depression, it’s usually unclear whether it’s a side effect of medications or a residual symptom of depression. Overall, antidepressants can help
Some antidepressants list weight gain as a side effect. Everyone is different and reacts differently to medications. Sometimes the reason for weight gain is that daily activities like preparing meals or going out with friends reoccur and involve food. An improved mood can also increase your appetite. Other antidepressants have a lower risk of weight gain. Overall, the potential for weight gain should not be a factor in your decision about antidepressants.
They can be expensive
Even with insurance and generic prescriptions, the drug can still be financially difficult for some people. Although the cost of prescriptions is governed by your insurer and plan, it may be worth consulting with your doctor to see if they need to provide an authorization request to your insurance company, helping you find a more affordable option. or provide you with samples. or coupons they can give you.
They can have side effects
Side effects can be bothersome, especially at first, such as dry mouth, fatigue, nausea, or headache. The good news is that these minor side effects tend to go away within a few weeks. If you continue to have side effects, or if there are other significant side effects that do not go away, tell your doctor.
If you choose to quit, you can’t quit hard
If you decide to stop taking antidepressants, abrupt discontinuation is not recommended as withdrawal symptoms may occur. Do not stop taking your medications until you have discussed them with your doctor. They might put you on a taper plan or switch you to a new drug. They may also monitor you for any withdrawal symptoms.
Antidepressants are generally a safe and effective treatment option for depression. There are different classes of antidepressants and different drugs within each class. Finding the right one for you can take time and you may have to try several before you find the drug that works best for you.
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